Just as the 2022 infant formula crisis fades from memory of American parents, a new investigation by Consumer Reports (CR) has uncovered alarming levels of toxic contaminants—including arsenic and lead—in some leading formula brands.
For the analysis, CR tested 41 powdered formula types, including established, newer, and popular store brands, as well as imported options for toxic metals like arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead. Shockingly, nearly half of the samples contained “potentially harmful levels” of at least one contaminant. However, the other half met safety standards, offering reassurance to concerned parents.
Key Findings from Investigation
Arsenic: A Silent Danger
Arsenic, a known carcinogen found both naturally and due to industrial processes, was detected at the highest levels in EleCare Hypoallergenic and Similac Alimentum—both produced by Abbott Nutrition, a company already linked to the COVID-related infant formula shortage of 2022.
“Arsenic in high levels is a poison and increases cancer risk over time,” said Dr. Mark R. Corkins, professor of pediatrics at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Dr. David Carpenter from SUNY Albany emphasized, “There is no excuse for having arsenic in baby formula. The industry must do everything possible to eliminate it.”
Lead: A Persistent Threat
Lead, another toxic metal, was present in nearly all tested formulas. Although levels were below FDA limits, experts argue they should be even lower. Lead exposure in infants has been linked to neurological damage, ADHD, and reduced IQ.
“There is no safe level of lead exposure,” said Dr. Hannah Gardener of the University of Miami. She stressed that formula manufacturers should conduct rigorous, repeated testing and disclose contamination levels to consumers.
On the positive side, CR found no mercury in any of the formulas, and cadmium levels were too low to be of concern.
FDA Responds with Stricter Oversight
Following CR’s findings, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched “Operation Stork Speed” to enhance monitoring and testing of infant formula for contaminants.
“The FDA will use all resources and authorities at its disposal to make sure infant formula products are safe and wholesome for the families and children who rely on them,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Safe Choices for Parents
The good news here is that there are many safe choices out there—specifically, 21 deemed to be “top choices” by CR—such as Similac Advance, Enfamil Gentlease, and Earth’s Best Organic Dairy. Another 10 were rated as “good choices,” such as Similac 360 Total Care and Kendamil Organic.
However, among the 10 “worse choices” are Similac Total Comfort and Target’s Up & Up Soy, both of which contained inorganic arsenic.
Industry Response and Market Realities
The U.S. formula market is controlled by a few major players, with Abbott (Similac) and Mead Johnson (Enfamil) producing nearly all formula bought through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. Both companies challenged CR’s findings, asserting that trace heavy metal levels exist in all food products and that their formulas comply with regulatory standards.
“Abbott follows a rigorous quality process to meet all regulatory requirements,” said Dr. Hakim Bouzamondo, Abbott Nutrition’s Vice President. He also disagreed with the CR’s use of California’s stricter risk assessment metrics.
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What Parents Can Do?
Parents should opt for formulas from CR’s “top choices” list and stay informed about FDA updates. While heavy metals are unavoidable in some food products, strict regulation and manufacturer accountability can minimize risks, ensuring safer nutrition for infants.
As the FDA tightens oversight, consumers must demand transparency and prioritize safer formula choices for their children.